Chelsea have turned to an unusual rugby-inspired training method as Xabi Alonso prepares his side to deal with Arsenal’s formidable set-piece threat at the Emirates.
Players were pictured using large tackle shields at Cobham during preparations for Sunday’s Premier League clash, with the exercise apparently designed to recreate the physical pressure Chelsea can expect from Arsenal at corners and free-kicks.
The approach comes after Chelsea’s seven-goal start exposed a defensive weakness Arsenal could punish.
Chelsea stars prepare for Arsenal using rugby tackle shields in bizarre training bid to combat set-piece dark artshttps://t.co/lmCq7hhjL3
— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) September 3, 2026
Chelsea use rugby shields before Arsenal clash
The Sun reports that Chelsea players including Valentin Barco and Pep Chavarria were seen working with rugby-style crash pads during training at Cobham.
The idea is understood to be preparing Alonso’s players for the physical contact Arsenal create around the six-yard box from set-pieces.
Mikel Arteta’s side have developed a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous teams from dead-ball situations.
The Premier League has previously highlighted how Arsenal overload the area around the goalkeeper and use aggressive movement to create space for their biggest aerial threats. (premierleague.com)
That threat is particularly relevant for Chelsea.
Arsenal scored twice from set-pieces when they beat the Blues 2-1 at the Emirates last season, with the Premier League describing dead-ball situations as decisive in the result.
Alonso looks for answers to Chelsea defensive problem
Chelsea have won both of their opening Premier League games under Alonso, but the defensive numbers remain concerning.
The Blues followed a 3-2 victory over Fulham with a chaotic 4-3 win over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
That leaves Chelsea with seven goals scored but five conceded in just two league matches.
Brighton also demonstrated how quickly Alonso’s side can lose control.
Chelsea led 3-0 before allowing the visitors back into the contest and eventually needing Cole Palmer’s fourth goal to secure the victory.
Sunday provides an immediate step up.
Arsenal have won both of their opening Premier League matches without conceding, while Chelsea have not won a league game at the Emirates since 2021.
Alonso is therefore looking for every possible advantage before the trip to north London.
Using rugby tackle shields may look unusual on the training pitch.
But if it helps Chelsea survive Arsenal’s set-piece assault, nobody at Stamford Bridge will care how unconventional the preparation appeared.
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